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🔥 "Crispy, Fluffy & Foolproof – Here’s How!" ✨🥖

Is there anything better than the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through your kitchen? This no-knead bread recipe is a total game-changer! No fancy techniques, no special equipment—just mix, rest, and bake. The result? A beautifully golden loaf with a crisp crust and a light, airy interior. It’s perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or simply enjoying with a generous swipe of butter.

Freshly baked no-knead bread cooling on a wooden cutting board, with a crispy golden crust and a fluffy interior.

🏆 Why You’ll Love This Bread

✔️ No kneading required – Time does all the work!

✔️ Only 5 ingredients – Simple pantry staples.

✔️ Crispy crust, soft center – Like bakery-style artisan bread!

✔️ Beginner-friendly – No special baking skills needed.

🥖 Ingredients

Ingredients for homemade bread including flour, yeast, water, oil, salt, bowls, and a wooden spoon arranged on a wooden table.

500 g bread flour (all-purpose works too, but bread flour gives a better texture)
350 ml lukewarm water (around 38°C / 100°F for best yeast activation)
1 packet (7 g) yeast (instant or active dry)
1.5 teaspoons salt
1 tablespoon oil (olive oil for extra flavor)

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast. Stir with a wooden spoon handle until evenly mixed.

2️⃣ Add Liquid Ingredients

Pour in lukewarm water and oil, then stir until all the flour is absorbed. (It’ll be sticky—don’t worry, that’s normal!)

3️⃣ Rest and Stretch

Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rest for 15 minutes.

Lightly oil your hands, then gently stretch the dough upward and fold it over itself.
Cover and let it rest for another 15 minutes.

4️⃣ Repeat the Process

Perform one more stretch-and-fold.
Let it rest again for 15 minutes.
After the final stretch, transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking dish.

5️⃣ Preheat and Bake

Let the dough sit while your oven preheats to 200°C (390°F).
Use a sharp knife to score the top of the dough.
Cover and bake for 40 minutes.

6️⃣ Cool and Enjoy!

Remove the bread from the dish and place it on a cooling rack.
For an extra crispy crust, leave it uncovered.
Prefer it softer? Cover with a towel while cooling.

🔎 Troubleshooting & Pro Tips

🔹 Why is my dough too wet or sticky?

That’s completely normal! No-knead dough is much wetter than traditional dough. If it’s TOO liquidy, your flour might be lower in protein—just add a tablespoon of flour at a time until it’s manageable.

🔹 Can I let the dough rise overnight?

Absolutely! An overnight rest in the fridge (8-12 hours) enhances flavor and makes an even crispier crust.

🔹 How do I make the crust extra crunchy?

Bake uncovered for the last 5 minutes or add a small oven-safe dish with water inside your oven to create steam.

🍞 Variations to Try

✅ Whole Wheat Version – Swap half the flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.

✅ Garlic & Herb Twist – Add 1 teaspoon garlic powder and chopped rosemary for a flavorful kick.

✅ Cheesy Delight – Mix in ½ cup shredded cheese for a rich, savory bread.

❓ Poll: What’s your favorite way to enjoy fresh bread?

🧈 With a generous swipe of butter – So simple, so good!
🥚 With eggs & bacon – Breakfast perfection.
🍯 Dipped in honey or jam – A sweet treat!
🍲 With a warm bowl of soup – Ultimate comfort food.

(Vote in the comments below!)